Anchor for solar module

ABSTRACT

An anchor for mounting one or more solar modules to a roof is disclosed. The anchor can comprise a clamp body comprising a central surface and a first arm extending from the central surface. The first arm can have a first clamping face. The clamp body can be sized and shaped to receive at least a first web extending from at least a first solar module such that at least the first web can lie in proximity to the first clamping face. The anchor can further include a clamp member coupled to the clamp body so as to be moveable toward the first clamping face to press the first web against the first clamping face.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS

1. Field of the Inventions

Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate generally tomounting systems for solar modules, such as anchors for mounting solarmodules to a fixed surface such as a roof.

2. Description of the Related Art

Solar power has long been viewed as an important alternative energysource. To this end, substantial efforts and investments have been madeto develop and improve upon solar energy collection technology. Ofparticular interest are residential-, industrial- and commercial-typeapplications in which relatively significant amounts of solar energy canbe collected and utilized in supplementing or satisfying power needs.One way of implementing solar energy collection technology is byassembling an array of multiple solar modules.

One type of solar energy system is a solar photovoltaic system. Solarphotovoltaic systems (“photovoltaic systems”) can employ solar panelsmade of silicon or other materials (e.g., III-V cells such as GaAs) toconvert sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic systems typicallyinclude a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) modules (or “solar tiles”)interconnected with wiring to one or more appropriate electricalcomponents (e.g., switches, inverters, junction boxes, etc.).

A typical conventional PV module includes a PV laminate or panel havingan assembly of crystalline or amorphous semiconductor devices (“PVcells”) electrically interconnected and encapsulated within aweather-proof barrier. One or more electrical conductors are housedinside the PV laminate through which the solar-generated current isconducted.

Regardless of an exact construction of the PV laminate, most PVapplications entail placing an array of solar modules at theinstallation site in a location where sunlight is readily present. Thisis especially true for residential, commercial or industrialapplications in which multiple solar modules are desirable forgenerating substantial amounts of energy, with the rooftop of thestructure providing a convenient surface at which the solar modules canbe placed.

As a point of reference, many commercial buildings have large, flatroofs that are inherently conducive to placement of a solar modulearray, and are the most efficient use of existing space. By contrast,many residential roofs may be sloped or angled such that placement of asolar module may be more difficult due to gravitational forces imposedon the angled modules. While rooftop installation is thus highlyvariable, it can be important to ensure that the array of solar modulesis reliably and stably anchored to the roof, whether the roof is anangled or flat roof. Moreover, it can be important to ensure that a usercan easily, effectively, and rapidly mount one or more solar module(s)to the roof.

SUMMARY

In accordance with at least one embodiment, an anchor for mounting oneor more solar modules to a roof can include a clamp body comprising acentral surface and a first arm extending from the central surface, thefirst arm having a first clamping face. The clamp body can be sized andshaped to receive at least a first web extending from at least a firstsolar module such that at least the first web can lie in proximity tothe first clamping face. In addition, the anchor can comprise a clampmember coupled to the clamp body so as to be moveable toward the firstclamping face to press the first web against the first clamping face.

In another embodiment, a method for securing one or more solar modulesto an anchor is disclosed. The anchor can comprise a clamp body and aclamp member coupled to the clamp body. The clamp body can have acentral surface and a first arm extending from the central surface, thefirst arm having a first clamping face. In some arrangements, the clampbody can be sized and shaped to receive one or more webs extending fromone or more solar modules. The method can comprise positioning a firstweb adjacent to the first clamping face of the first arm. In addition,the method can comprise translating the clamp member towards the centralsurface of the clamp body to clamp the first web of the one or more websagainst the first clamping face.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the subject matter may be derived byreferring to the detailed description and claims when considered inconjunction with the following figures, wherein like reference numbersrefer to similar elements throughout the figures.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a solar power system including a solararray having a plurality of solar modules.

FIG. 1B is an enlarged side end view of two adjacent solar modules, eachmodule having a web extending therefrom.

FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram of an optional electrical systemconnected to the array.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a plurality of solar modules coupled tomultiple anchors, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2B is a side end view of an anchor coupled to a web of a solarmodule at an outer edge of the array, according to the embodiment ofFIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a side end view of an anchor coupled to two webs of twoadjacent solar modules, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a perspective, exploded view of the anchor of the embodimentof FIGS. 2A-2C.

FIG. 3B is a side cross-sectional view of the anchor of FIG. 3A when theanchor is assembled.

FIG. 3C is a side end view of a clamp body, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an anchor coupled to a web of a solarmodule at an outer end of an array, according to another embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a side end view of the anchor and web of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an anchor, according to yet anotherembodiment.

FIG. 5B is a side end view of the anchor of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a side end view of an anchor according to another embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the anchor of FIG. 5C coupled to a webof a solar module.

FIG. 6B is a side end view of the anchor and web of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a side end view of the anchor of FIG. 5C coupled to two websof two adjacent solar modules.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is merely illustrative in nature andis not intended to limit the embodiments of the subject matter or theapplication and uses of such embodiments. As used herein, the word“exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.”Any implementation described herein as exemplary is not necessarily tobe construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed orimplied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background,brief summary or the following detailed description.

“Coupled”—The following description refers to elements or nodes orfeatures being “coupled” together. As used herein, unless expresslystated otherwise, “coupled” means that one element/node/feature isdirectly or indirectly joined to (or directly or indirectly communicateswith) another element/node/feature.

“Adjust”—Some elements, components, and/or features are described asbeing adjustable or adjusted. As used herein, unless expressly statedotherwise, “adjust” means to position, modify, alter, or dispose anelement or component or portion thereof as suitable to the circumstanceand embodiment. In certain cases, the element or component, or portionthereof, can remain in an unchanged position, state, and/or condition asa result of adjustment, if appropriate or desirable for the embodimentunder the circumstances. In some cases, the element or component can bealtered, changed, or modified to a new position, state, and/or conditionas a result of adjustment, if appropriate or desired

In addition, certain terminology may also be used in the followingdescription for the purpose of reference only, and thus are not intendedto be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “above”,and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference ismade. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, and “side” describe theorientation and/or location of portions of the component within aconsistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear byreference to the text and the associated drawings describing thecomponent under discussion. Such terminology may include the wordsspecifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similarimport. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second”, and other such numericalterms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unlessclearly indicated by the context.

The inventions disclosed herein are often described in the context ofphotovoltaic arrays and modules. However, these inventions can be usedin other contexts as well, such as concentrated PV systems, thermalsolar systems, etc.

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a solar power system 10 including a solararray 11 having a plurality of solar modules 12. Each solar module 12can include a laminate 14 supported by a frame 13. In some embodiments,the solar modules 12 can be the same as or similar to the modulesdisclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0320908, which isincorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

With reference to FIG. 1C, the solar power system 10 can be incorporatedinto electrical system 40 connected to the array 11. For example, theelectrical system 40 can include the array 11 as a power sourceconnected to a remote connection device 42 with power lines 44. Theelectrical system 40 can also include a utility power source, a meter,an electrical panel with a main disconnect, a junction, electricalloads, and/or an inverter with the utility power source monitor. Theelectrical system 40 can be configured and can operate in accordancewith the descriptions set forth in U.S. Patent Publication No.2010/0071744, the entire contents of which are hereby expresslyincorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, each laminate 14 caninclude an array of solar cells, such as PV cells, configured to convertlight into electricity. The frame 13 can provide structural support forthe corresponding laminate 14 around the peripheral edges of thelaminate 14. In some embodiments, the frame 13 can be a separatecomponent that is coupled to the laminate 14.

The modules 12 can include a web 15 extending from or be coupled to anedge of each module 12. For example, FIG. 1B is a magnified side view oftwo adjacent solar modules 12. As illustrated, the web 15 is coupled tothe frames 13 of the two adjacent modules 12. However, otherconfigurations can also be used. For example, the web 15 can be formedintegrally or monolithically with the frame 13.

In the illustrated embodiment, the web 15 can extend along the edge ofeach module 12, and can in some arrangements extend to and/or couple toadditional adjacent modules 12. The web 15 can be coupled to the modules12 by way of an intermediate structure or skeleton. Optionally, the web15 can include a hem 16 at a distal end of the web 15. As explained inmore detail below, the hem 16 can be configured to assist in securingthe web 15 to an anchor.

The hem 16 can be formed in any known manner, including for example butwithout limitation, by folding a portion of the distal end of the web 15over a 180 degree angle. Optionally, the folded over portion forming thehem 16 can be bonded so as to ensure that the hem 16 remains in thefolded state. In some embodiments, the hem 16 can be a separatecomponent that is bonded or otherwise attached to the distal end of theweb 15.

The solar modules 12 within the solar array 11 can be mounted to a fixedstructure (not illustrated) using one or more anchors 50. For example,the solar modules 12 can be mounted to a roof, which can be angled orsubstantially flat. The number of anchors 50 used to secure each modulecan be varied to provide the desired wind lift resistance, based on theweight of the modules 12 and the prevailing wind conditions.

Optionally, the anchors 50 can be configured to provide for verticaladjustment. For example, a user may desire to raise or lower a solarmodule 12 to ensure that each solar module 12 within the array 11 isaligned or leveled with each another. Such embodiments can make iteasier for a user to adjust or set the height of a particular modulewhile simultaneously securing the module to the anchor. Suchadjustability can also provide for adjusting the height or angle of thesolar modules 12 to maximize the amount of light detected by the module12.

With reference to FIGS. 2A-2C and FIGS. 3A-3C, multiple solar modules 12can be secured to corresponding anchors 50 a, 50 b. As explained above,the anchors 50 a, 50 b can in turn be mounted to a fixed structure suchas a roof (not shown) to thereby secure the modules 12 to the fixedstructure. As shown in FIG. 2A, a first anchor 50 a can be used tosecure a first solar module 12 a located at an outer edge of the array11, to the fixed structure.

In some embodiments, the anchor 50 a can be shaped and sized to receivea web 15 extending from the first solar module 12 a. Because theparticular solar module 12 a that is coupled to the anchor 50 a is at anouter edge of the array 11, only one web 15 is secured to the anchor 50a (although the anchor 50 a can be configured to receive and secure morethan one web).

FIG. 2B is a side end view illustrating the first solar module 12 acoupled to the anchor 50 a by way of the web 15. The web 15 can becoupled to the first solar module 12 a by way of a coupling structure 68configured to mechanically couple the web 15 to the frame 13. In otherembodiments, however, the web can be integrally formed with the firstsolar module 12 a. The web 15 can also comprise a protrusion orattachment extending from the solar module 12 a. The components andoperation of the anchor 50 a are discussed in greater detail below withrespect to FIGS. 3A-3C.

A second anchor 50 b can also be used to secure the first solar module12 a and, optionally, an adjacent second solar module 12 b. The anchor50 b can be located within the interior of the array 11, e.g., such thatit couples to two adjacent modules 12 a, 12 b. In some embodiments, theanchor 50 b can be configured to receive two webs 15 a, 15 b.

FIG. 2C is a side end view illustrating the adjacent solar modules 12 a,12 b coupled to the anchor 50 b by way of the webs 15 a, 15 b. In someembodiments, a single anchor 50 b can be used to secure two adjacentsolar modules to a fixed structure such as a roof.

FIG. 3A is a perspective, exploded view of the anchor 50, and FIG. 3B isa side cross-sectional view of the anchor 50 of FIG. 3A with the anchor50 assembled. Note that, as used herein, the components of the anchor 50will be denoted in increments of 100. Thus, the disclosed embodiments ofanchors are be numbered 50, 150, and 250, respectively, and similar orrelated components of the anchor can likewise be incremented by 100, 200etc.

The anchor 50 of FIGS. 3A-3B can include a clamp body 51. The clamp body51 is further illustrated, in the side end view, in FIG. 3C. Asillustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C, the clamp body 51 can comprise a centralsurface 53 and one or more arms 52A, 52B extending from the centralsurface 53. For example, the first arm 52A can include a first clampingface 54A, and the second arm 52B can include a second clamping face 54B.As shown, the clamping faces 54A, 54B can be formed at an angle to thecentral surface 53 of the clamp body 51. Although FIGS. 3A-3C illustratea first arm 52A and a second arm 52B, in some embodiments, the clampbody 51 can have only one arm, or more than two arms.

The clamp body 51 can be sized and shaped to receive one or more webs 15extending from one or more solar modules 12 such that the web(s) 15 canlie in proximity to the clamping face(s) 54A, 54B, as shown in FIGS.2B-2C. The arms 52A, 52B and their associated clamping faces 54A, 54Bcan be configured to clamp or press one or more webs 15 of one or moresolar modules 12 against the clamp body 51.

Optionally, as explained below with respect to FIGS. 4A-6C, each of thearms 52A, 52B can include a recess sized and shaped to receive a hemformed at the distal end of a web. As with other embodiments, the recesscan be configured to receive and/or capture the hem when the web isclamped against a clamping face. The clamp body 51 can also include ahole 64 therethrough. For example, the hole 64 can extend through alength of the clamp body 51. An elongated coupling member 58 can becoupled to and/or integrated with the clamp body 51. As shown, thecoupling member 58 can include an angled distal end or face 61.

In addition, the anchor 50 can include a clamp member 55 coupled to theclamp body 51. As shown best in FIG. 3A, the clamp member 55 can be acap having a hole 66 therethrough. The clamp member 55 can be configuredto move towards and away from the clamping faces 54A, 54B of the clampbody 51, e.g. in the +y and −y directions illustrated in FIG. 3B. Forexample, as the clamp member 55 translates in the −y direction, theclamp member 55 can press a first web 15 a against the first clampingface 54A of the first arm 52A and can press a second web 15 b againstthe second clamping face 54B of the second arm 52B, as best seen in FIG.2C. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2B, the clamp member 55 can pressonly one web 15 against one of the clamping faces of one of the arms.Thus, the downward motion or translation of the clamp member 55 canpress or clamp the web(s) 15 to the clamp body 51. The angledconfiguration of the clamping faces 54A, 54B can advantageously provideeffective clamping surfaces when the clamp member 55 translates or movesin the −y direction.

The anchor 50 can further comprise a base member 56 that includes a foot62 having a slot 63 formed through the thickness of the foot 62. Thebase member 56 can be coupled to a structure, such as a roof, bybolting, screwing, or otherwise attaching the foot 62 to a surface ofthe structure through the slot 63. For example, a user can insert a boltthrough the slot 63 to engage with a support structure (such as a rafteror stud) coupled to the roof. In addition, the base member 56 caninclude a receiver 57 configured to receive the coupling member 58 thatis coupled to or integrally formed with the clamp body 51.

The receiver 57 can comprise an elongated member having a cavity shapedand sized to receive the coupling member 58. The anchor 50 can furthercomprise a wedge 64 disposed within the receiver 57 that is configuredto engage with the angled distal end 61 of the coupling member 58. Theangled face of the wedge 64 can be formed at substantially the sameangle as the angled distal end 61 of the coupling member 58, such thatthe angled face of the wedge 64 interfaces with the angled distal end 61of the coupling member 58.

As shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, a rotatable clamp device 59 can be coupled tothe clamp body 51. In some embodiments, the rotatable clamp device 59can comprise a clamp bolt that extends through the clamp member 55(e.g., the cap) and the clamp body 51. For example, the rotatable clampdevice 59 can extend through the hole 66 of the clamp member 55 and thehole 65 of the clamp body 51.

The rotatable clamp device 59 can couple to the wedge 64 disposed in thereceiver 57 of the base member 56. For example, the rotatable clampdevice 59 can include exterior threads at a distal end of the device 59that threadably couple to corresponding threads in the wedge 64. Therotatable clamp device 59 can also include a head 69 at a proximal endof the device 59 that is configured to bear against the clamp member 55.

Optionally, a rotatable height adjustment member 60 can be coupled tothe rotatable clamp device 59. In some embodiments, the rotatable heightadjustment member 60 can be a jack screw. For example, the rotatableheight adjustment member 60 can be adjustably connected to the rotatableclamp device 59 (e.g., the clamp bolt) so as to be axially adjustablerelative to the clamp bolt along a longitudinal axis of the rotatableheight adjustment member 60 (e.g., the jack screw). In some embodiments,the rotatable height adjustment member 60 can include exterior threads,and the rotatable clamp device 59 can include interior threads.

The rotatable height adjustment member 60 can threadably connect into ahole 67 formed through the length of the rotatable clamp device 59. Insome embodiments, the rotatable height adjustment member 60 can extendpast a distal end of the rotatable clamp device 59 and through a holeformed in the wedge 64. A distal end of the rotatable height adjustmentmember 60 can thereby contact the foot 62 of the base 56 by passingthrough the rotatable clamp device 59, the clamp member 55, the clampbody 51, the wedge 64, and the receiver 57. Because the rotatable heightadjustment member 60 passes through the rotatable clamp device 59 asshown, the rotatable clamp device 59 and the rotatable height adjustmentmember 60 can be configured to rotate about the same axis of rotation,e.g., the longitudinal axis of both components.

The anchor 50 can be formed of any suitable material. In someembodiments, for example, the components can be formed of a metallicmaterial. For example, any and/or all components of the anchor 50 can beformed of steel. In some embodiments, any and/or all components of theanchor 50 can be formed of aluminum or zinc. Skilled artisans willappreciate that other materials are possible for the anchor.

As explained above with respect to FIGS. 2A-2C, the anchor 50 of can beconfigured to secure one or more webs 15 to a fixed structure such as aroof. In addition, the anchor 50 can be configured to adjust the heightof the solar modules 12.

In operation, to clamp one or more webs 15 to the clamp body 51, a usercan rotate the rotatable clamp device 59 such that the threads at itsdistal end advance into the hole formed in the wedge 64. As therotatable clamp device 59 advances, the head 69 of the rotatable clampdevice 59 bears against the clamp member 55, which in turn presses theclamp member 55 against the web(s) 15 of the solar module(s) 12 tosecure the module(s) 12 to the anchor 50.

Advantageously, rotating the rotatable clamp device 59 can also assistin securing the clamp body 51 within the receiver 57 of the base member56, e.g., by securing the clamp body 51 in the y-direction relative tothe base member 56. This can be advantageous in securing the componentsof the anchor 50 together even under vertical, lifting loads such aswind.

For example, as the rotatable clamp device 59 rotates, the wedge 64 canbear against the angled distal end 61 of the coupling member 58. Becausethe wedge 64 and the angled distal end 61 of the coupling member 58include faces formed at similar, complementary angles, axial forcesinduced by threading can be imparted in a radial direction using theangled surfaces. The substantially vertical forces, e.g., in the−y-direction, can be transmitted as a force with a radially outwardcomponent by way of the angled faces of the wedge 64 and the angleddistal end 61. The induced radial forces can therefore act as aninterference fit between the receiver 57 and the coupling member 58 toassist in securing the clamp body 51 to the base member 56 and the fixedstructure.

Furthermore, the user can adjust the height of the solar module(s) 12 inaddition to securing the module(s) 12 to the fixed structure. To adjustthe height, the user can rotate the rotatable height adjustment member60 (e.g., the jack screw) such that the rotatable height adjustmentmember 60 bears against the foot 62 of the base member 56. By bearingagainst the base member 56, the rotatable height adjustment member 60can raise or lower the clamp body 51, the wedge 64, the clamp member 55,and the rotatable clamp device 59 relative to the base member 56 inorder to raise the solar module(s) 12.

Users of the solar power system 10 disclosed in FIGS. 2A-3C can readilysecure one or more solar modules 12 to a fixed structure and can adjustthe height of the one or more modules 12 using a single anchor 50. Theembodiment disclosed in FIGS. 2A-3C can advantageously support theweight of the module(s) 12 while the user secures the module to theanchor and adjusts the height of the clamp body 51 and therefore thetotal height of the module(s) 12. Indeed, in some situations, the usermay be able to adjustably secure the module(s) 12 to the anchor 50 byrotating the rotatable clamp device 59 and the rotatable heightadjustment member 60 using only one hand.

In one embodiment of an assembly method, the wedge 64 can be insertedinto the receiver 57, and the coupling member 58 of the clamp body 51can be inserted in the receiver 57 above the wedge 64. The clamp member55 can be positioned adjacent the central surface 53 of the clamp body51 between the first and second arms 52A, 52B. The rotatable clampdevice 59 can be passed through the clamp member 55 and the clamp body51. The rotatable height adjustment member 60 can be passed through, orthreaded through, the rotatable clamp device 59 past a distal end of therotatable clamp device 59 to contact the base member 56.

To mount the solar module(s) 12 to the fixed structure such as a roof,base member 56 can be mounted to the fixed structure. The othercomponents of the anchor 50 can be assembled as described above duringthe mounting process (e.g., while the user is on the roof), or theanchor 50 can be assembled before use in the field. The user canposition a first web 15 a of a first solar module 12 a against the firstclamping face 54A of the first arm 52A.

In some embodiments, the user can position a second web 15 b of a secondsolar module 12 b against the second clamping face 54B of the second arm52B. The rotatable clamp device 59 can be rotated to press the first web15 a against the first clamping face 54A of the first arm 52A. Therotation can also press or clamp the second web 15 b against the secondclamping face 54B of the second arm 52B. In some embodiments, rotatingthe rotatable clamp device 59 (e.g., the clamp bolt) can cause the clampmember 55 to translate toward the central surface 53 of the clamp body51. In addition, as explained above, rotating the clamp bolt can alsoinduce a radially outward force against the base member 56 that securesthe coupling member 58 within the receiver 57. The rotatable heightadjustment member can be rotated to raise or lower at least the clampbody 51 (which can also raise or lower the solar module(s)).

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate another embodiment of an anchor 150. FIG. 4A is aperspective view of the anchor 150 coupled to a web 115 of a solarmodule 112 at an outer end of an array 111. FIG. 4B is a side end viewof the anchor 150 and web 115 of FIG. 4A. As above, the anchor 150 canbe configured to secure one or more webs 115 to the anchor 150,including, e.g., webs of adjacent modules 112 in the interior of anarray 111.

The anchor 150 can comprise a clamp body 151 having a central surface153 and at least a first arm 152A extending therefrom. A second arm 152Bcan also extend from the central surface 153.

Each arm can include a clamping face 154A, 154B, as explained above. Inaddition, each clamping face 154A, 154B can include a recess 172 sizedand shaped to receive a hem 116 formed at or near a distal end of theweb(s) 115. Further, the recess 172 can be configured to capture the hem116 of a web 115 when the web 115 is clamped against the body 151. Whencaptured as such, the recess can provide enhanced retaining functionbecause if the web 115 begins to slip upwardly, the hem 116 eventuallycontacts the upper edge of the recess 172, thereby additionallyresisting further upward movement of the web 115 away from the anchor150. As illustrated, the recess 172 is formed only in clamping face154A; it should be appreciated, however, that the recess 172 can beformed in both clamping faces 154A, 154B.

The anchor 150 can further comprise a base member 156 (or roof mount)having a first wall 170 and a second wall or foot 162 joined at an angleα to the first wall 170. As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the angle α can begreater than 90 degrees in some embodiments. In other embodiments, theangle α can be about 90 degrees, while in still other embodiments, a canbe less than 90 degrees.

For example, if the web 115 is formed at an angle to the roof orstructure, then the first and second walls 170, 162 can correspondinglybe joined at an angle such that the web 115 can be received by the clampbody 151 while ensuring that the solar modules 112 remain substantiallyparallel to the roof or structure.

The foot or second wall 162 can include a first slot 163 formedtherethrough. As in the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-3C, a bolt or othercoupling member can operatively join to the roof or fixed structurethrough the first slot 163. The first wall 170 can include a secondelongated slot 171 extending therethrough.

The anchor 150 can further comprise a clamp member 159, which can be arotatable clamp device, such as a clamp bolt. The clamp member 159 cancouple to the clamp body 151 by extending through the second elongatedslot 171 and a hole within the clamp body 151 (not illustrated). Adistal end of the clamp member 159 can be configured to press the web115 of the module 112 against the clamping face 154A to secure themodule 112 to the anchor 150. In some embodiments, the clamp member 159(e.g., rotatable clamp device) can be threaded through the hole in theclamp body 151 to press against the web 115. Alternatively, a nut orother component (not illustrated) can be mounted on the clamping face154B of the second arm 152B to bear against the clamping face 154B tocause the clamp member 159 to press against the web 115.

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-3C, the solar modules 112 can be bothsecured to corresponding anchors 150 and height-adjusted. For example,the anchor 150 can optionally include a rotatable height adjustmentmember 160 coupled to the clamp member 159, e.g., the rotatable clampdevice, such that the rotatable height adjustment member 160 can beadjusted relative to the clamp member 159. In some implementations, therotatable height adjustment member 160 can comprise a nut. However,other height adjustment mechanisms can also be used.

The clamp member 159 can extend through the rotatable height adjustmentmember 160 such that the clamp member 159 (e.g., the clamp bolt) and therotatable height adjustment member 160 (e.g., the nut) are configured torotate about the same axis. In some embodiments, the clamp member 159 isthreaded through the rotatable height adjustment member 160 such thatrotation of the rotatable height adjustment member 160 can cause awasher 173 and the first wall 170 to engage or disengage from the secondarm 152B.

When the second arm 152B has been loosened or disengaged, the second arm152B can be translated along the second elongated slot 171 to raise orlower the rotatable height adjustment member 160, the clamp member 159,the clamp body 151, the web 115, and, thus, the solar module(s) 112.When the height adjustment member 160 is at the desired height, thesecond arm 152B can be tightened or engaged by rotating the adjustmentmember 160 in a direction opposite the direction used to disengage thesecond arm 152B.

As explained above, the clamp member 159 can press the web(s) 115against the clamping face 154A of the first arm 152A. As shown in FIG.4B, for example, when the web 115 is pressed against the clamping face154A, the hem 116 can be urged into the recess 172. The recess 172 canbe sized and shaped such that the hem 116 is captured within the recesswhen the hem 116 is pressed or urged into the recess 172. For example,while the clamp member 159 clamps the web 116 by pressing it against theclamping face 154A, the recess 172 can assist in securing the module 112to the anchor 150 by preventing or inhibiting vertical motion by the web115, e.g., motion parallel to the clamping face 154A that mightotherwise allow the web 115 to slide out of the clamp. The recess 172can therefore assist in retaining the web within the anchor 150 when theweb 115 is clamped against the clamp body 151.

In one method for mounting the solar module(s) 112 to a fixed structure,the base member 156 (or roof mount) can be coupled to the fixedstructure or roof. A web 115 can be positioned against a first clampingface 154A of the first arm 152A. The rotatable clamp device or clampmember 159 can be rotated to press the web 115 against the firstclamping face 154A. The rotatable height adjustment member 160, or nut,can be rotated to raise or lower the clamp body 151 and the solarmodule(s) 112. In some embodiments, a second web can be pressed againstthe second clamping face 154B of the second arm 152B. Further, therotatable height adjustment member 160 can be rotated and translatedalong the slot 171 to raise or lower the clamp body and the solarmodule(s) 112. Moreover, in some embodiments, the clamp member 159 cancontact the web 115 to clamp the web 115 against the first clamping face154A. The hem can be positioned in the recess 172 formed in the firstclamping face 154A to secure the web 115 to the anchor 150.

With reference to FIGS. 5A-6C, another embodiment of an anchor 50 isidentified by the reference numeral 250. The anchor 250 can comprise aclamp body 251 having a central surface 253. As shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, asingle arm 252 can extend from the central surface 253 in oneembodiment. In other embodiments, such as in FIGS. 5C and 6A-6C, a firstarm 252A and a second arm 252B can extend from the central surface 253.In some embodiments, each arm 252A, 252B can include a clamping face254A, 254B.

Each clamping face 254A, 254B can include a first surface 254A-1, 254B-1that is substantially perpendicular to the central surface 253. A secondsurface 254A-2, 254B-2 can be angled away from the central surface 253and the first surface 254A-1, 254B-1. The angled surfaces of theclamping faces 254A, 254B can assist in urging the hem(s) 216 intocorresponding recess(es) 272A, 272B.

The anchor 250 can comprise a clamp member 255 coupled to the clamp body251 so as to be moveable toward the clamping face(s) 254A, 254B. Theclamp member 255 can be configured to clamp one or more webs 215 againstthe clamping face(s) 254A, 254B of the clamp body 251.

As shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, the anchor 250 can couple to a solar module 212at an outer edge of the array 211. Thus, the clamp member 255 of theanchor 250 illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B can press one web 215 of thesolar module 212 against the second clamping face 254B of the second arm252B. However, the clamp member 25 of the anchor 250 can also beconfigured to press two webs 215 a, 215 b against the first and secondclamping faces 254A, 254B, respectively. For example, as described inthe above embodiments of FIGS. 2A-4B, the anchor 250 can be configuredto couple to the webs of two adjacent solar modules 212 a, 212 b thatmay be located in the interior of the array 211.

The clamp member 255 can further comprise a contact member 280 disposedbetween the first arm 252A and the second arm 252B. Alternatively, inarrangements with a single arm, the contact member 280 can be disposedadjacent the single arm. A fastener 259 can couple the contact member280 to the central surface 253 of the clamp body 251. The fastener 259can include a head 269 such that, when the head 269 is rotated, thefastener 259 rotates and bears against the contact member 280. Forexample, in some implementations, the fastener 259 can threadably engagewith the clamp body 251. The contact member 280 can thus be advancedtoward the central surface 253 of the clamp body 251 and can press theone or more web(s) 215 against the clamping face(s) 254.

As explained above with respect to FIGS. 2A-4B, the hem 216 of each web215 can be received and captured by the corresponding recess 272 whenthe web 215 is clamped against the clamping face(s) 254. For example, asthe fastener 259 advances the contact member 280 against the web 215,the hem 216 of the web 215 can be urged into the recess 272. The recess272 can thereby further secure the web 215 to the anchor 250 byinhibiting vertical motion, e.g., motion parallel to the clamping faces254, of the web 215 relative to the clamp body 251.

The anchor 250 can further comprise a roof mount or base member 256 thathas a first wall 270 and a foot or second wall 262 joined at an angle tothe first wall 270. The foot 262 can include a first slot 263 configuredto couple to a roof or fixed structure, as explained with respect to theembodiment of FIGS. 4A-4B. The first wall 270 can include a secondelongated slot 271.

A rotatable height adjustment member 260, e.g., a bolt, can extendthrough the second elongated slot 271 and a hole (not shown) in theclamp body 251. For example, the rotatable height adjustment member 260can threadably engage with the hole of the clamp body 251. As in FIGS.4A-4B, rotation of the bolt in one direction can cause a washer 273 todisengage or loosen from the clamp body 251. The bolt or rotatableheight adjustment member 260 can then be translated along the secondelongated slot 271 to raise or lower the clamp body 251, the web(s) 215,and, thus, the solar module(s) 212.

To secure one or more solar module(s) 212 to a fixed structure such as aroof, the roof mount or base member 256 can be mounted to the roof orstructure. A first web 215 a can be positioned against the firstclamping face 254A of the first arm 252A of the clamp body 251 (oralternatively the second clamping face 254B). The clamp member 255 canbe advanced to contact the clamp member 255 against the first web 215 ato clamp the first web 215 a against the first clamping face 254A. Forexample, the fastener 259 can be rotated to translate the clamp member255 (e.g., the contact member 280) toward the clamp body 251.

The first hem 16 a of the first web 215 a can be positioned or urgedinto the first recess 272A to secure the first web 215 a to the anchor250. Furthermore, the rotatable height adjustment member 260 can berotated and translated along the second elongated slot 271 to raise orlower at least the clamp body 251, and therefore, the solar module(s)212.

While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in theforegoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vastnumber of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that theexemplary embodiment or embodiments described herein are not intended tolimit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claimed subjectmatter in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description willprovide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map forimplementing the described embodiment or embodiments. It should beunderstood that various changes can be made in the function andarrangement of elements without departing from the scope defined by theclaims, which includes known equivalents and foreseeable equivalents atthe time of filing this patent application.

What is claimed is:
 1. An anchor for mounting one or more solar modulesto a roof, the anchor comprising: a clamp body comprising a centralsurface and a first arm extending from the central surface, the firstarm having a first clamping face, the clamp body sized and shaped toreceive at least a first web extending from at least a first solarmodule such that at least the first web can lie in proximity to thefirst clamping face; and a clamp member coupled to the clamp body so asto be moveable toward the first clamping face to press the first webagainst the first clamping face.
 2. The anchor of claim 1, furthercomprising: a second arm extending from the central surface opposite thefirst arm, the second arm having a second clamping face, and wherein theclamp member is further configured to press a second web of a secondsolar module against the second clamping face.
 3. The anchor of claim 2,additionally comprising: a coupling member; a base member having areceiver configured to receive the coupling member; a clamp boltextending through the clamp member and the clamp body; and a jack memberadjustably connected to the clamp bolt so as to be axially adjustablerelative to the clamp bolt along a longitudinal axis of the jack member.4. The anchor of claim 3, wherein the coupling member comprises anangled distal end, the anchor further comprising a wedge disposed withinthe receiver that engages the angled distal end of the coupling member.5. The anchor of claim 3, wherein rotation of the jack member is sizedsuch that rotation of the jack member causes the jack member to bearagainst the base to raise at least the clamp body.
 6. The anchor ofclaim 4, wherein the clamp bolt is configured such that rotation of theclamp bolt causes the clamp member to bear against the clamp body topress the first web against the first clamping face and to press thesecond web against the second clamping face.
 7. The anchor of claim 4,wherein rotation of the clamp bolt causes the wedge to bear against theangled distal end of the coupling member to induce a radially outwardforce against the base member that secures the coupling member withinthe receiver.
 8. The anchor of claim 2, the clamp member comprising: acontact member disposed between the first arm and the second arm; and afastener that couples the contact member to the central surface of theclamp body, wherein rotation of the fastener causes the contact memberto translate toward or away from the central surface of the clamp body.9. The anchor of claim 8, wherein the first arm comprises a first recesssized and shaped to receive a first hem of the first web, wherein thesecond arm comprises a second recess sized and shaped to receive asecond hem of the second web, wherein each of the first and secondclamping faces comprises a first surface substantially perpendicular tothe central surface and a second surface angled away from the centralsurface, and wherein the fastener is configured to urge the first heminto the first recess and the second hem into the second recess.
 10. Theanchor of claim 8, the anchor further comprising: a base membercomprising a first wall and a second wall joined at an angle to thefirst wall, wherein the first wall includes a slot shaped and sized toreceive a bolt extending through the clamp body, and wherein the secondwall is configured to mount to a roof.
 11. The anchor of claim 10,wherein rotation of the bolt and translation of the bolt along the slotraises or lowers at least the clamp body.
 12. A method for securing oneor more solar modules to an anchor, the anchor comprising a clamp bodyand a clamp member coupled to the clamp body, the clamp body having acentral surface and a first arm extending from the central surface, thefirst arm having a first clamping face, the clamp body sized and shapedto receive one or more webs extending from one or more solar modules,the method comprising: positioning a first web adjacent to the firstclamping face of the first arm; and translating the clamp member towardsthe central surface of the clamp body to clamp the first web of the oneor more webs against the first clamping face.
 13. The method of claim12, wherein the clamp body further comprises a second arm extending fromthe central surface opposite the first arm, the second arm having asecond clamping face, and wherein translating the clamp member towardsthe central surface of the clamp body clamps a second web against thesecond clamping face.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the anchorfurther comprises a coupling member, a base member having a receiversized to receive the coupling member, a clamp bolt that extends throughthe clamp member and the clamp body, and a jack member threaded throughthe clamp bolt and extending past a distal end of the clamp bolt tocontact the base member, the method further comprising rotating the jackmember to raise at least the clamp body.
 15. The method of claim 14,wherein the coupling member comprises an angled distal end, the anchorfurther comprising a wedge disposed within the receiver of the basemember that engages the angled distal end of the coupling member, andwherein translating the clamp member towards the central surface of theclamp body comprises rotating the clamp bolt.
 16. The method of claim15, wherein rotating the clamp bolt induces a radially outward forceagainst the base member that secures the coupling member within thereceiver.
 17. The method of claim 13, wherein the clamp body furthercomprises a coupling member, the method further comprising: insertingthe coupling member into a receiver of a base member; passing a clampbolt through the clamp member and the clamp body; and threading a jackscrew through the clamp bolt past a distal end of the clamp bolt tocontact the base member.
 18. The method of claim 13, wherein the clampmember comprises a contact member disposed between the first arm and thesecond arm and a fastener that couples the contact member to the centralsurface of the clamp body, and wherein translating the clamp membercomprises rotating the fastener to translate the contact member towardor away from the central surface of the clamp body.
 19. The method ofclaim 18, wherein the anchor further comprises a base member, whereinthe base member comprises a first wall and a second wall joined at anangle to the first wall, wherein the first wall includes a slot shapedand sized to receive a bolt extending through the clamp body, the methodfurther comprising operably engaging a roof fastener through an openingin the second wall of the base member to couple the anchor to the roof.20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: rotating the bolt; andtranslating the bolt along the slot to lower or raise at least the clampbody.